No matter what season it is. It’s usually time for a well-deserved vacation! But if you’re a Pommy Mommy, you might be wondering what to do with your beloved Pomeranian while you’re off on your adventure. Should you bring your fur baby along for the ride, or is it better to leave them at home? There’s a lot to consider when traveling with your Pomeranian, but with some preparation and planning, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable trip for both of you.
Consider Your Pomeranian’s Comfort
Before you decide to travel with your Pomeranian, consider whether they’ll actually enjoy the trip. Some pets thrive on adventure and love to explore new places, while others may find the experience stressful. If your Pomeranian is anxious or doesn’t travel well, it might be kinder to leave them at home with a trusted pet sitter or board them at a reputable kennel. On the other hand, if your Pommy is used to being on the go and enjoys new experiences, then they may be the perfect travel companion.
Lodging: Finding Pet-Friendly Accommodations
If you decide to travel with your Pomeranian, the first thing you need to do is find pet-friendly accommodations. Not all hotels and rental properties allow pets, so it’s crucial to check the pet policy before you arrive. Some hotels charge an additional fee for pets, and there may be specific rules you need to follow, such as keeping your dog on a leash or not leaving them unattended in the room.
Websites like Petswelcome.com are great resources for finding pet-friendly hotels in your destination. Always call ahead to confirm the details and ensure that the hotel’s pet policy hasn’t changed. It’s also a good idea to ask if there are any nearby parks or pet-friendly attractions where your Pomeranian can stretch their legs.
Road Trips: Preparing for the Journey
If you’re planning a road trip, it’s important to make sure your Pomeranian is comfortable in the car. Start by taking them on a series of short drives to get them used to being in the vehicle. Gradually increase the length of these drives so that your Pommy can adjust to spending more time in the car.
When it comes to car safety, your Pomeranian should be securely restrained to prevent them from moving around the vehicle. You can use a well-ventilated crate that’s big enough for them to sit, stand, lie down, and turn around in. Make sure the crate is securely fastened in the car to prevent it from sliding around. Alternatively, you can use a safety harness that attaches to the seat belt buckle, or invest in a booster seat designed for small dogs.
During the trip, stop frequently for bathroom breaks and to give your Pomeranian a chance to stretch their legs. To avoid upsetting their stomach, feed them a light meal a few hours before you hit the road, but don’t feed them in the moving vehicle. And, of course, never leave your Pomeranian alone in a parked car on a warm day, as temperatures can rise dangerously fast.
If you’re traveling across state lines, bring your Pom’s rabies and vaccination records with you. Some states require proof of these vaccinations at certain interstate crossings.
Flying with Your Pomeranian: What You Need to Know
Flying with a Pomeranian requires more preparation than a road trip. The first step is to check with the airline for its specific pet travel policies. Some airlines allow small dogs like Pomeranians to travel in the cabin as carry-on passengers, while others may require them to fly in the cargo area. Each airline has its own rules regarding bag size, the number of pets allowed in the cabin, and breed restrictions, so it’s important to do your homework before booking a ticket.
Visit websites like PetTravel.com or BringFido.com for up-to-date information on airline pet policies, but always call the airline directly to confirm. Many airlines require a health certificate from your vet, obtained within ten days of your flight, so plan a vet visit ahead of time. This is also a good opportunity to discuss whether sedation is necessary for your Pomeranian during the flight, as some airlines do not allow sedated pets.
Before flying, ensure your Pomeranian is comfortable in their kennel or carrier. Many owners prefer sling bags for in-cabin travel, but whichever option you choose, confirm it meets airline size requirements and offers enough room for your Pom to sit, stand, and turn around with ease
When booking your flight, try to choose nonstop options to minimize the stress of multiple takeoffs and landings. Remember that you’ll need to pay for your Pomeranian’s ticket, as most airlines charge a fee for pets.
Train, Bus, and Sea Travel: Know the Rules
Unfortunately, if you’re planning on traveling with your Pomeranian by train or bus, your options may be limited. Amtrak and Greyhound do not allow pets on board, and most cruise ships are also not pet-friendly. However, a few cruise lines do allow dogs, so check with the cruise line for their pet policy.
General Tips for Traveling with Your Pomeranian
Traveling with your Pomeranian by car, plane, or another mode of transport? These general tips will ensure a smooth trip:
- Visit the Vet: Schedule a vet appointment before your trip to ensure your Pomeranian is healthy and up to date on vaccinations. This is especially important if you plan to fly.
- Microchip: Consider microchipping your Pomeranian if they don’t already have one.
- ID Tags: Make sure your Pommy wears a collar with an ID tag that includes your name, home address, and a temporary travel tag with your cell phone number.
- Pack the Essentials: Bring extra food and water, your Pom’s favorite toys, blankets, leash, waste bags, medication, and grooming supplies. Don’t forget to pack a recent photo of your Pomeranian in case you get separated.
- Exercise: Exercise your Pommy before and after travel to help them burn off energy. A tired dog is more likely to rest during the journey.
- Stick to a Routine: Try to keep your Pom’s eating and exercise schedule as close to normal as possible once you reach your destination.
- Research Local Vets: Identify a vet near your destination in case of an emergency. HealthyPet.com is a helpful resource for finding reputable veterinarians.
When It’s Best to Leave Your Pomeranian at Home
If traveling with your Pomeranian seems too stressful or inconvenient, it’s okay to leave them at home. Research kennel and doggie daycare options in your area, or consider hiring a trusted pet sitter. If possible, have someone your Pomeranian already knows and feels comfortable with take care of them.
Whatever you decide, the most important thing is to ensure your Pomeranian’s safety and well-being. With the right preparation, you and your Pommy can enjoy a fabulous summer vacation together!
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